Similar to describe an ideal place to spend a holiday, this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to describe places and express personal preferences effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions examiners may ask:
- Do you like traveling?
- What kinds of places do you like to visit?
- How often do you travel?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely passionate about traveling. I particularly gravitate towards historical sites and natural landscapes because they offer unique insights into different cultures and breathtaking views. I try to take at least two or three trips annually, depending on my schedule and budget.”
Traveler expressing enthusiasm about visiting historical sites and natural landscapes
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a tourist destination you would like to visit again
You should say:
- Where it is
- When you visited it
- What you did there
- And explain why you want to visit it again
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d love to talk about Kyoto, Japan, which I visited two years ago during the cherry blossom season. This ancient capital is a perfect blend of traditional and modern Japan.
During my week-long stay, I immersed myself in the local culture by visiting numerous temples, particularly the iconic Kinkaku-ji with its stunning golden pavilion. I also had the privilege of participating in a traditional tea ceremony and wandering through the enchanting bamboo forests of Arashiyama.
The main reason I’m eager to return is that Kyoto has such incredible depth to its cultural heritage that it’s impossible to fully appreciate in just one visit. I barely scratched the surface of what the city has to offer. Moreover, I’ve learned that each season brings a completely different perspective to the city’s beauty, from the vibrant autumn foliage to the serene winter snowscapes.”
Just as describe a famous tourist attraction you would like to explore, this response demonstrates how to effectively convey enthusiasm about a destination.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do some people prefer to visit the same place multiple times?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“There are several compelling reasons why people choose to revisit destinations. First and foremost, familiar places offer a sense of comfort and predictability, which can be particularly appealing in our fast-paced world. Additionally, returning to a place allows travelers to delve deeper into the local culture and discover hidden gems they might have missed during their first visit. Some people also forge meaningful connections with locals, making subsequent visits feel like returning to a second home.”
For those interested in describe an interesting place to go in your area, similar principles of detailed description can be applied.
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Immerse oneself in (phrasal verb) – to become completely involved in something
- Iconic (adj.) – widely recognized and well-established
- Cultural heritage (n.) – traditions and physical artifacts inherited from past generations
- Forge connections (v.) – to create or develop relationships
- Delve deeper (v.) – to examine something more thoroughly
Examiner’s Tips
- Use descriptive language that demonstrates range and accuracy
- Provide specific examples to support your points
- Maintain a natural flow while incorporating sophisticated vocabulary
- Show genuine enthusiasm through appropriate intonation
- Structure your response logically with clear progression
Similar to describe a holiday experience that didn’t go as planned, remember to include both positive and challenging aspects of your experience to demonstrate balanced expression.
